Page 248 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Dental Assistant
Occupation Code: 3251
Alternative title: Dental Surgery Assistant
Job description and duties
Dental Assistants carry out routine tasks as instructed by a Dentist, including preparing patients for treatment and setting up equipment. A Dental Assistant is typically expected to:
• Perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments and answering the telephone
• Ensure the patient’s comfort
• Clean and sterilise instruments and keep the
surgery tidy
• Assist Dentists during treatment by passing
instruments or using a suction device to remove water, saliva and debris from the patient’s mouth
• Prepare materials for dental moulds and fillings
• Develop x-rays
• Manage inventory and order supplies
• Carry out dental management tasks such as
stocktaking and updating of patient records
Work environment
Dental Assistants work in hospitals and clinics in the public and private sector. This role is typically on a full-time basis, however part- time may be an option. Dental Assistants may be required to work on Sundays and public holidays when based in hospitals or clinics which operate on a 24 hour basis.
Occupation data
Entry level education / special licences / warrants
To work as a Dental Assistant, a qualification at MQF Level 4 or higher is required. Training programmes include:
• Diploma for Dental Surgery Assistants (MCAST) (MQF Level 4)
• Diploma in Dental Surgery Assistance (University of Malta) (MQF Level 5)
For further details on specific entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the respective educational institution’s website.
Qualifications awarded by foreign bodies need to be recognised or pegged with a particular MQF Level by the MQRIC office within NCFHE.
Number of employees (2017)
132
Share of foreigners (2017)
11%
Job Outlook (2018 - 2022)
+20%
Median Pay (per annum)
€13,800
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